Steering column breakaway and energy absorption apparatus

ABSTRACT

An article for a steering column assembly (10) including a connection member (60) having a base portion (62) adapted to be attached to a column tube (30) of the steering column assembly (10) and opposing side walls (64) extending from the base portion (62). The article further includes an energy absorption member (80) having a first generally flat segment (82), a second generally flat segment (84) generally parallel to the first generally flat segment (82), and a curved portion (86) therebetween. The energy absorption member (80) extends from the base of the connection member (60). The present teachings also envision a telescoping adjustment subassembly and a steering column assembly (10) employing the article.

FIELD

In general, the present teachings relate to an improved collapsiblesteering column assembly and methods associated with the same (e.g.,methods of providing energy absorption, such as in a secondary impact).

BACKGROUND

During a vehicle collision, there are commonly two impacts. In a primaryimpact, the vehicle impacts another object. In a secondary impact, avehicle occupant impacts a component of the vehicle. For example, avehicle operator sometimes impacts the steering wheel due to inertia. Inorder to help try to protect drivers from such secondary impacts, it hasbecome common practice to use an impact-absorbing type steering column.A collapsible steering column system is an example of animpact-absorbing type steering column.

The structure of an impact-absorbing type steering column apparatus issuch that when the driver suffers a secondary impact, the impact energyacts on the steering column in the frontward direction of the vehicle.The steering column may detach from one or more fixation points with thevehicle body and move forward (e.g., in a collapse stroke), so that theimpact energy is absorbed in the course of the collapse stroke. Anexternal collapsing column assembly is an example of a system in whichthe entire column will translate relative to its fixation points. Aninternal collapsing column assembly typically will be fixed at one ormore fixation points near one of the ends of the assembly within thevehicle. During a collapse stroke from a secondary impact, components ofthe assembly will longitudinally collapse (e.g., generally within thevolume it occupies within the vehicle in normal operation; that is,generally within its “footprint” in the vehicle), but generally will notcollapse beyond a certain distance relative to a predetermined fixationpoint. An internal collapsing system thus has a stroke, but may remainfixed to the vehicle at the one or more fixation points.

For many applications, steering column assemblies incorporate one orboth of a tilt or telescopic function. For these applications, it iscommon to employ levers for manual performance of such functions by avehicle user. By way of example, in what is known as a “manual rake andreach” steering column assembly, the assembly will have both a tilt(“rake”) and a telescopic (“reach”) function, with a lever provided fora vehicle user to manually release for affording rake and reachadjustment to a selected position, and then to re-engage for fixing thesteering column in the selected position.

Notwithstanding efforts to improve collapsible steering columnassemblies, (e.g., internally collapsible steering column assemblies),there remains a need for alternative assemblies, particularly those inwhich during an impact such as a secondary impact, one or both of a useroperating device (e.g., a lever) and a steering wheel (if employed) maybe translated forward and away from a vehicle user. There also remains aneed for additional energy absorption within the assembly.

The following U.S. patent documents may be related to the presentteachings: U.S. Publication Nos. 2008/0236325; 2008/0111363;2009/0174177; 2010/0300238; 2010/0032933; and 2015/0096404; and U.S.Pat. Nos. 8,047,096; 9,428,213; and 9,904,590, all of which areincorporated by reference herein for all purposes. U.S. Publication No.2013/0233117 also may have teachings related to the present teachingsand is incorporated by reference herein.

SUMMARY

The present teachings make use of a simple, yet elegant, constructionapproach by which relatively few components can be employed forachieving an energy absorbing steering column assembly, such as acollapsible steering column assembly. The steering column assembly maybe an adjustable (e.g., for rake and/or reach) steering column assembly.For example, though having applicability to externally collapsingassemblies (which are contemplated within the present teachings), thesteering column assembly herein may be an internally collapsibleassembly. It may be an assembly that is affixed within a vehicle at oneor more fixation points so that upon a secondary impact the steeringcolumn assembly resists forward motion substantially beyond (e.g., about10 mm or more or about 20 mm or more beyond) the one or more fixationpoints. It may be a collapsible steering column assembly that exhibitsrelatively good energy absorption characteristics, especially during asecondary impact. It may be a collapsible steering column assembly thatexhibits longitudinal displacement (e.g., forward translation) of one ormore components of the assembly (e.g., a column tube) during a secondaryimpact.

As one general way of characterizing the present teachings, there isenvisioned a collapsing steering column assembly. It may be aninternally collapsing assembly or an externally collapsing assembly.Though, it is particularly attractive for an internally collapsingassembly in which at least a portion of the assembly is secured againstany substantial forward movement (e.g., about 50 mm or less, about 20 mmor less, or about 10 mm or less) within a vehicle. The steering columnassembly may include a steering wheel position adjustment portion (e.g.,an arrangement adapted for adjusting the rake and/or reach position of asteering wheel relative to a vehicle operator, such as a telescopingtubular arrangement). It may include a bracket (e.g., a tilt bracket)for at least partially carrying the steering wheel position adjustmentportion and attaching the assembly within the vehicle. It may include asecuring member (e.g., as discussed elsewhere herein, a tilt bolt orother elongated member, such as one that is adapted for applying asecuring force to help maintain a steering column assembly in a desiredposition) for fixing the position of the steering wheel positionadjustment portion (such as by operation of a lever that is adapted tobe employed by an operator to apply or remove a securing force). Duringnormal operation, the steering column assembly may be in a secureengagement position, where at least a portion of the steering shaftsupport structure (e.g., a column tube, a column housing, or both) isfixed in a fixed position in the steering column assembly. The secureengagement position may be the adjusted position selected by the user inan adjustable position steering column assembly.

It is envisioned that the assembly may include an energy absorptionstructure capable of deformation during an impact. For instance, theenergy absorption structure may be configured in a manner such that itcan allow for controlled movement of a component relative to another sothat one or more components of the steering wheel adjustment portiontranslate forward in the event of an impact, such as a secondary impact.It is also envisioned that the at least one energy absorption device isoperable to absorb energy in a collapse stroke occasioned in response toa force applied to it due to the secondary impact. For instance, forwardtravel of the column tube may occur as a result of the impact such as asecondary impact, which may operatively engage the at least one energyabsorption device or structure (e.g., a plastically deformable elongatedmember such as a metal strip or bend plate).

In one general aspect of the teachings, there is contemplated acollapsing steering column assembly that includes a column tube, asteering shaft (adapted for coupling with a steering wheel or other likestructure) that is supported for rotation at least in part by the columntube and having a longitudinal axis; and a suitable bracket (or one ormore brackets) for carrying the column tube and attaching the assemblywithin a vehicle (e.g., to a cross-vehicle structure). The bracket orbrackets may be coupled with a column housing, such as for securing thecolumn housing in a generally fixed position within the vehicle. Thecolumn tube may be configured to be carried by the column housing (e.g.,in a telescoping manner), in one or more fixed positions. For example,the column tube may be telescopically adjustable (e.g., by way of amanual adjustment lever or a motor) within and/or relative to the columnhousing. The column housing and the column tube each will have alongitudinal axis. Their respective longitudinal axes may be generallyaligned (e.g., they may be generally co-axial). The position of thecolumn tube relative to the column housing may be fixed by way of asecuring member (e.g., a tilt bolt or other elongated member as will bedescribed) that is located in a secure engagement position and applies aforce (e.g., a generally transverse force relative to the longitudinalaxes of the column tube and the column housing) to at least one of thecolumn housing or column tube for causing a secure engagement of thecolumn tube and the column housing (e.g., a clamped engagement, aninterference, interlock, detent or other mechanical engagement). In theevent of a secondary impact exceeding a threshold load, the column tubemay be permitted to translate (e.g., forward) relative to the columnhousing, and may also cause an energy absorption device (e.g., a metalstrip) to absorb energy from the secondary impact (e.g., by plasticallydeforming (with or without elongation, compaction, shear strain, and/orbuckling)).

The present teachings may relate to a collapsing steering columnassembly (e.g., an internally collapsing steering column assembly) foran automotive vehicle, including a column tube; a steering shaftsupported for rotation at least in part by the column tube and having alongitudinal axis; and one or more brackets (e.g., a tilt bracketadapted for receiving or otherwise carrying and/or supporting at least aportion of the column tube and/or for mounting the steering columnassembly within the automotive vehicle). A column housing may beemployed for telescopically carrying the column tube (e.g., the columntube may be configured to be located within the column housing). Thecolumn housing and column tube may be part of a steering shaft supportstructure. The column housing may have a portion that is adapted to bepivotally mounted within a vehicle (e.g., in a fixed position, or in aposition that allows slight forward travel (e.g., about 20 mm or less orabout 10 mm or less) of the column housing from a load occasioned by asecondary impact). The steering column assembly may include one or morebrackets or at least one portion adapted to mount the assembly to avehicle (e.g., to a cross-vehicle structure), and a portion adapted tocarry (directly or indirectly) the column tube. For example, the bracketmay include an upper wall for attachment to the vehicle and an outwardlyprojecting wall structure that projects away from the upper wall (andwhich may be configured to flank the column tube and/or afford at leasta partial vertical translation of the column tube relative to the upperwall). A manually operated steering wheel adjustment subassembly mayalso be employed. It may be adapted for (i) selectively adjusting thesteering shaft in a fore or aft direction generally along thelongitudinal axis; (ii) selectively raising or lowering the steeringshaft; or (iii) both (i) and (ii). The steering wheel adjustmentsubassembly may include a lever adapted for manually actuating thesubassembly, and at least one engagement member that is brought into andout of engagement with the column tube or a structure attached to thecolumn tube for selectively locking the steering shaft into a position(which may be relative to the position of the column housing) desired bya user. The column housing may be pivotally mounted at a pivot mountinglocation within the automotive vehicle. The column housing may at leastpartially surround the column tube. The column housing, the tiltbracket, and/or the column tube may include one or more structuresand/or mechanisms adapted for securing the column tube into positionusing the lever. Desirably, during a secondary impact, the columnhousing remains in a generally fixed position relative to the pivotmounting location (e.g., if it travels longitudinally it travels about20 mm or less or about 10 mm or less).

By way of summary, the teachings herein contemplate an article for asteering column assembly including a connection member having a baseportion adapted to be attached to a column tube of the steering columnassembly and optional opposing side walls extending from the baseportion; and an energy absorption member. The energy absorption membermay have a first generally flat segment, a second generally flat segmentgenerally parallel to the first generally flat segment, and a curvedportion therebetween. The second generally flat segment may extend fromthe base portion of the connection member. The energy absorption membermay extend from the base portion of the connection member. The energyabsorption member may be integrated into the connection member forming asingular piece. The energy absorption member may absorb energy by way ofplastic deformation. The side walls may include a slot for receiving anelongated member (e.g., a tilt bolt). The article may further include atelescoping damper located at a forward end of the article adapted tocontact a column housing of the steering column assembly. The articlemay be adapted to break away from a portion of the steering columnassembly, such as during an impact exceeding a threshold load.

The present teachings also contemplate a telescoping adjustmentsubassembly. The subassembly may include the article described herein,an actuation member (e.g., a lever), an elongated member (e.g., a tiltbolt) adapted to be rotated by the actuation member, and a rotationalmember attached to or positioned on the elongated member. The rotationalmember may be adapted to be received between the opposing side walls ofthe article. The rotational member may engage with the base portion ofthe connection member when the subassembly is in a locked position. Therotational member may be a toothed cam.

The present teachings also contemplate a collapsing steering columnassembly. The assembly may include a column tube; a steering shaft thatis supported for rotation at least in part by the column tube; a columnhousing; a bracket for at least partially carrying the column tube; thearticle or telescoping adjustment subassembly as described herein; and amanually operated steering wheel adjustment subassembly including alever for manually actuating the steering wheel adjustment subassembly.The article (e.g., at the base portion of the connection member) may beconnected to the column tube via one or more rivets or fasteners. Thearticle may be adapted to break away from the column tube upon an impactexceeding a threshold load. The column tube may be configured fortelescoping insertion within the column housing. The steering wheeladjustment subassembly may be adapted for selectively adjusting thesteering shaft, column tube, or both, in a fore or aft directiongenerally along the longitudinal axis. The steering wheel adjustmentsubassembly may be adapted for selectively raising or lowering thesteering shaft, column tube, or both. The energy absorption member mayhave a first generally flat segment, a second generally flat segmentgenerally parallel to the first generally flat segment, and a curvedportion therebetween, where the second generally flat segment extendsfrom the base portion of the connection member, and where the firstgenerally flat segment extends into the column tube. The energyabsorption member may be adapted to absorb energy by way of plasticdeformation during a forward translation of a column tube during theimpact. Deformation of the energy absorption member may be guided by aguide structure. The energy absorption member may, when employed, absorbenergy by plastic deformation during the impact as the column tubetranslates along the column housing. The article may break away from thecolumn tube upon the side walls and/or telescoping damper contacting acolumn housing and/or elongated member, such as a tilt bolt, of thesteering column assembly. The article may break away from the columntube upon the impact as the connection member is held in position byengaging with the rotational member. The article may break away from thecolumn tube upon shearing of one or more fasteners or rivets joining thearticle and the column tube.

As can be seen, it is thus possible to realize a unique assembly (andassociated methods) that enable a steering column assembly to adjusttelescopically, while also being able to absorb energy, particularlyduring a secondary impact.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary steering column assembly inaccordance with the present teachings.

FIG. 2A is a side, partial cutaway view of an exemplary steering columnassembly having a connection member, energy absorption member, androtational member in accordance with the present teachings.

FIG. 2B is an exemplary fastener in accordance with the presentteachings.

FIG. 2C is a bottom view of the assembly of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a side, partial cutaway view of an exemplary steering columnassembly having a connection member with integrated energy absorptionmember and a rotational member in accordance with the present teachings.

FIG. 4 is a side, partial cutaway view of an exemplary steering columnassembly having a connection member with integrated energy absorptionmember in accordance with the present teachings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As required, detailed teachings are disclosed herein; however, it is tobe understood that the disclosed teachings are merely exemplary and maybe embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are notnecessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized toshow details of particular components. Therefore, specific structuraland functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted aslimiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilledin the art to variously employ the present teachings.

In general, and as will be appreciated from the description thatfollows, the present teachings pertain to a collapsing steering columnassembly. The steering column assembly may include a mounting portion(e.g., one or more bracket structures) for securing the steering columnassembly in a vehicle in a fixed operational position. The assembly mayhave a collapsing portion, at least a portion of which is adapted totravel forward relative to the mounting portion, while the mountingportion stays generally in its fixed operational position (e.g., anytravel of the mounting portion is controlled and limited to an amount ofabout 50 mm or less, about 20 mm or less, or about 10 mm or less). Amongits basic concepts the teachings are directed to a steering columnassembly that, in the event of an impact such as a secondary impact thatresults in a load of a certain threshold amount (e.g., a load of about0.5 kN or more or about 2 kN or more; a load of about 10 kN or less orabout 5 kN or less), may be adapted so that at least a portion of thecollapsing portion travels forward within the vehicle. The forwardtravel may be in a telescopic manner (e.g., at least one first structurethat is operatively connected to a steering wheel (such as a columntube) may advance forward (e.g., along an axis that is generallyparallel with (such as within about 10° or more, about 30° or less, orboth, of being parallel with) a vehicle longitudinal axis) in a vehiclerelative to at least one second structure that may at least partiallysurround the at least one first structure (e.g., a column housing)).

The teachings envision that the steering column assembly may include atilt or rake adjustment that is adapted to allow a user to select anangle of inclination of a steering wheel, a reach adjustment that isadapted to allow a user to select an appropriate fore-aft position ofthe steering wheel, or both. In general, any such adjustment may becontrolled by a suitable user operating device (e.g., a lever, anelectromechanical actuator, motor, or otherwise). For a manuallyoperated system, a lever or other user operating device may be adaptedto control a force applied to maintain the collapsing portion in a userselected position. For example, a lever or other user operating devicemay be in operative engagement with one, two, or more mechanisms toreleasably (and possibly adjustably as well) secure two or morecomponents of the collapsing portion together. Securing may be realizedby a suitable securing member (e.g., an elongated force applyingmember), such as a bolt (e.g., a tilt bolt), rod, strap, bar, band,wedge, rotational member such as a cam, or other suitable member, or acombination thereof. For instance, the securing member may be adapted,upon actuation of the user operating device to cause a cam or rotationalmember to rotate and engage with a portion of a connection member tosecure the steering wheel at its desired telescoped position.

The teachings, in general, also envision the possible use of one or moreenergy absorption devices. The energy absorption devices may be asuitable device adapted to deform elastically and/or elastically andplastically. In the course of deforming, the energy absorption devicesare thus adapted to absorb energy by way of the deformation. The energyabsorption device may be operatively connected or located between oramong two or more components. It may be configured so that it limitsrelative movement as between or among two or more components. The energyabsorption devices may be wires, plates, strips, or the like. They mayhave a constant profile or a varying profile along their length. Theymay be employed to have one or more fixedly constrained portions (e.g.,an end). They may have one or more free ends.

In examples illustrated, teachings describe aspects useful for aninternally collapsing steering column assembly for an automotivevehicle. In general, an assembly of the teachings herein may include asteering shaft (e.g., one that can be coupled with a steering wheel orother steering device) and/or a column tube that supports the steeringshaft (e.g., via one or more bearings). A column housing may beemployed. It may be adapted to telescopically couple with the columntube. The column housing and column tube each may have a longitudinalaxis that is generally parallel or even coaxial with each other. One ormore brackets may be employed for at least partially securing either orboth of the column tube or the column housing to the vehicle (e.g., to across-vehicle structure). The bracket or one or more tilt plates mayinclude a suitable portion (e.g., a slot such as a generally verticallyoriented slot) adapted to provide a guide structure for a tilt function.A user operating device, such as a lever, may be employed for allowing auser to manually operate the assembly. The steering column assembly maybe configured so that in the event of a threshold load realized duringan impact such as a secondary impact, at least a portion the assembly(e.g., the column tube, steering shaft, steering wheel, or a combinationthereof) is able to translate forward from its typical operationalposition. Therefore, the column tube may thus be rendered able totranslate forward relative to the column housing, carrying with it thesteering wheel attached. As a result, it can be seen that it is possiblethat the steering wheel is rendered able to translate forward, e.g.,away from the user. There may be one or more elements adapted to breakaway from another element of the assembly during this forwardtranslation. For example, a connection member may break away from acolumn tube.

The teachings address an assembly that may typically include a columntube, a steering shaft, a bracket (e.g., a tilt bracket, a pivotbracket, or both), a column housing, and a steering wheel adjustmentsubassembly (e.g., a manually operated steering wheel adjustmentsubassembly). The steering wheel adjustment subassembly may include alever (as discussed, or some other user operating device) adapted foractuating (e.g., manually actuating) the subassembly via tilt,telescoping, or both. One or more motors may be used instead of or inaddition to manual actuation via a lever. For example, one or moremotors or other electromechanical actuators may cause tilt, telescoping,or both. It is further contemplated that a lever may be used to cause atilt or telescoping function, while a motor or other electromechanicalactuator may be used to cause the other of the tilt or telescopingfunction. At least one method of engagement (e.g., a toothed rotationalmember, a pin, a clamping mechanism) may be employed to engage with thecolumn tube or a structure secured thereto for selectively locking thesteering shaft into a position (e.g., telescoped position) desired by auser (e.g., via the lever). One or more rotational members may bebrought into and out of engagement (e.g., via interference) with aportion of a connection member for adjustment of the telescopingposition desired by a user (e.g., via the lever). A mounting structuremay detachably mount the steering wheel adjustment subassembly relativeto the bracket (e.g., tilt bracket). During an impact such as asecondary impact, the column housing may remain in a generally fixedposition relative to a forward pivot mounting location (e.g., anyforward translation is limited to a relatively small amount (e.g., about20 mm or less or about 10 mm or less)).

The assemblies as described herein generally will include a tube that isoperatively connected with a steering wheel, e.g., via a steering shaft.One such tube, referred to herein as a column tube, typically will havea hollow cavity along at least a portion of (if not the entirety of) thelength of the tube and may be sized and configured to receive andsupport a rotatable shaft, namely a steering shaft and possibly one ormore bearings. Both the shaft and the tube will have a longitudinalaxis. When installed in a vehicle, the longitudinal axis of each theshaft and the tube (as well as the steering column assembly in general)may be generally coaxially aligned, aligned generally parallel with alongitudinal axis of a vehicle, or each. The shaft and the column tubemay be made of or otherwise include a suitable metal, such as one ormore of iron (e.g., steel), magnesium, zinc, or aluminum.

The column tube may be generally cylindrical and hollow. It may have aforward end portion and a rearward end portion, and a longitudinal axis.Either or both of the forward or rearward end portion may include asuitable bearing that supports the steering shaft for rotation.

The steering shaft may have a rearward end portion adapted to receive asteering wheel (not shown). It may have a forward end portion thatpenetrates through and may be supported by a bearing, a key lock collaror both. As noted, the steering shaft may be supported for rotation atleast in part by the column tube and have a longitudinal axis that maybe generally coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the columntube.

One or more suitable brackets may be employed. Any such bracket mayinclude a portion for mounting the steering column assembly within avehicle (e.g., it can be secured to a vehicle structure, such as a crossvehicle beam, instrument panel, or otherwise). The bracket may have aportion that at least partially adjoins the steering shaft supportstructure (e.g., the column tube, the column housing, or both). Forexample, a bracket may include one or a plurality of downward depending(downwardly oriented) walls (e.g., tilt plates) that define a tiltportion of the bracket. One or more of the downward depending walls(e.g., tilt plates) may be adapted to provide a structure that has anelongated slot that provides guidance for the tilt function (e.g., itprovides a guide path for a securing member such as a tilt bolt as ittravels during adjustment; it may thus limit upward and downwardtravel). The bracket may be an integrated structure so that the tiltportion and the mounting portion are a single structure (e.g., acasting, a stamping, or a combination thereof). The bracket may be madeof separate structures that are assembled together to define themounting and tilt portions in a single structure. The mounting portionmay be omitted and/or may be located elsewhere within the steeringcolumn assembly. For example, a mounting portion may be a pivot bracketlocated toward the forward end of the assembly, where the pivot point ofthe pivotal movement of the assembly occurs. The tilt portion may beomitted. A mounting bracket may be employed separately from a structuredefining a tilt portion. Examples of brackets that may be employed, inaddition to the examples described herein, include those of U.S.Publication No. 2010/0300238 (the entirety of which is incorporated byreference for all purposes; see, e.g., description of bracket 20); U.S.Pat. No. 6,467,807, the entirety of which is incorporated by referencefor all purposes (see, e.g., description of brackets 6 and 7 andassociated structure).

One or more brackets (e.g., tilt brackets) may be employed and adaptedfor receiving at least a portion of a steering shaft support structure(e.g., at least a portion of the column tube, the column housing, orboth), and/or for mounting the steering column assembly within theautomotive vehicle. By way of example, a tilt bracket of the presentteachings may include an upper portion that is adapted to be secured toa vehicle structure, such as a cross vehicle beam, instrument panel, orotherwise. The bracket (e.g., tilt bracket) may have a pair of generallyopposing downwardly oriented or projecting walls (e.g., tilt plates).The bracket (e.g., tilt bracket) may have a structure that at leastpartially flanks at least a portion of the steering shaft supportstructure (e.g., the column tube). The bracket (e.g., tilt bracket) mayoptionally include a pair of opposing side walls, and an upper wall thatis configured to attach to the vehicle (e.g., to a cross vehicle beam,an instrument panel, or other suitable structure). The side walls mayproject outward relative to the upper wall (e.g., they may be generallyorthogonally or obliquely disposed relative to the upper wall). Thebracket (e.g., tilt bracket) may have a single downwardly projecting ororiented wall. The bracket (e.g., tilt bracket) may be disposedlaterally above and outward relative to an opposing portion of thecolumn housing.

It is possible that the teachings herein can be employed for steeringcolumn assemblies that are not adjustable, but which still require theability to collapse. In such instances, there will be no rake or reachadjustment hardware. However, the concepts herein may still be adaptedto achieve collapse. A mounting bracket may secure one or both of acolumn housing, or a column tube, to a vehicle. An energy absorptiondevice may be employed to limit forward travel of one or more componentsof the steering column assembly, such as the column tube, steeringshaft, or both.

The present teachings, however, have particular applicability forsteering column assemblies that are adjustable (e.g., for rake and/orreach). The assembly may include a manually operated steering wheeladjustment subassembly adapted for selectively adjusting the steeringshaft in a fore or aft direction generally along the longitudinal axis,selectively raising or lowering the steering shaft, or both. Thesteering wheel adjustment subassembly may include a lever or otheradapted for manually actuating the subassembly. The subassembly mayinclude at least one engagement member (e.g., a pin) that is broughtinto and out of engagement with the column tube or a structure securedthereto for selectively locking the steering shaft into a positiondesired by a user (e.g., a fore or aft position). Other suitablehardware may be employed in the subassembly, such as one or more thrustbearings, one or more nuts, one or more cam fix elements, and/or one ormore cam move elements (e.g., where the cam fix and the cam moveelements are in opposing operative relationship with each other, such asby contacting each other).

A column housing is pivotally mounted at a pivot mounting location(e.g., a permanently fixed mounting) within the automotive vehicle. Thepivot mounting location may be at or within about 20, about 30, about 40or about 50 mm of a forward end of the column housing. The pivotmounting location may be on an underside of the column housing, on a topside of the column housing, or at some location in between the topsideand the underside of the column housing. The column housing at leastpartially surrounds the column tube. The column housing may have one ormore projections or other structures to receive a biasing device (e.g.,a spring) that connects the column housing with the tilt bracket. Thecolumn housing may be a cast structure (e.g., including a metal such asaluminum, magnesium, zinc, and/or iron (e.g., steel)). During asecondary impact, the column housing may remain in a generally fixedposition relative to the pivot mounting location. It may be secured insuch a way that it translates forward a relatively small amount (e.g.,about 50 mm or less, about 20 mm or less, or about 10 mm or less).

During an impact (such as a secondary impact), the structures of thepresent teachings may be configured to include a suitable combination ofelements arranged in a manner so that a column tube, steering shaft, orboth, is able to translate forward longitudinally relative to the columnhousing.

The assembly herein includes a tilt adjustment subassembly. Thesubassembly may include a tilt bracket having one or more tilt plates ortwo or more tilt plates extending downwardly on opposing sides of thecolumn tube, column housing, or both. The tilt plates may include one ormore generally vertical slots. A tilt bolt or other elongated fastenermay extend between the two tilt plates, and the tilt bolt may bereceived within the vertical slots. The height adjustment of theassembly may be possible by the tilt bolt moving upwardly or downwardlyin the slots when the user operating device, such as a lever, is in anunlocked position. The assembly may be held at the desired angle orheight when the user operating device, such as a lever, is moved intothe locked position.

The present teachings also contemplate a telescope adjustmentsubassembly. Features of the telescope adjustment subassembly may alsoserve to absorb energy during an impact, such as a secondary impact. Thetelescope adjustment subassembly may allow for adjustment of thesteering wheel in a fore and aft position relative to a vehicle occupant(e.g., driver). The telescope adjustment subassembly may include a leveror other actuating member that allows the subassembly to be put into alocked and/or unlocked position. Upon unlocking the telescope adjustmentsubassembly, a user may be permitted to adjust the steering wheel. Uponlocking the telescope adjustment subassembly, the steering wheel mayremain in the desired location.

The telescope subassembly may include a connection member that issecured to an outer surface of the column tube. The connection membermay provide a surface for engagement with another element of theassembly (e.g., for locking and/or unlocking the telescope adjustmentsubassembly). The connection member may act as a stop, restricting thefore and/or aft translation during adjustment. The connection member mayact as a guide for fore and/or aft translation during adjustment. Theconnection member may act to contact a portion of the column housingduring an adjustment and/or during an impact exceeding a threshold load.Contacting the column housing may trigger a breakaway of the connectionmember from the column tube, thereby providing energy absorptioncharacteristics.

The connection member may include a base portion. The base portion mayprovide a contact surface between the connection member and the outersurface of the column tube. The base portion may be generally planar.The base portion may have a generally complementary shape to the columntube to reduce or prevent rocking of the connection member. The baseportion may have one or more openings for receiving a fastener to securethe connection member to the column tube. The base portion may provide acontact surface for another element of the assembly, such as arotational member for locking the steering wheel (and/or other elementsof the steering column assembly) in a desired position.

The fastener joining the connection member to the column tube may be anyfastener capable of maintaining connection between the connection memberand the column tube during normal operation and adjustment of thesteering column assembly. The fastener may be a shearable fastener. Thefastener may, therefore, shear upon an impact exceeding a thresholdload, thereby allowing the connection member to break away from thecolumn tube. The fastener may be a screw, pin, rivet, bolt, or the like.The fastener may be formed of a polymeric material. The fastener may beformed from a metal or metal alloy.

The connection member may have one or more side walls extending from thebase portion. The side walls may increase stiffness of the connectionmember. The side walls may be generally parallel. The side walls may bein a generally opposing relationship. The side walls and base may definea cavity or channel within which a rotational member may be permitted torotate. The side walls may include one or more slots for receiving anelongated member (e.g., a tilt bolt). The elongated member may bepermitted to travel within the slot during a telescoping adjustment. Theelongated member may remain stationary within the assembly, while theconnection member (i.e., joined to the column tube) may be permitted tomove when the telescope adjustment subassembly is in an unlockedposition. The slot may define the distance fore and/or aft that thesteering wheel (and/or other elements of the steering column assembly)is able to translate during adjustment. The slot may serve as a stopduring telescope adjustment. The front and/or rear edge of the slot mayrestrict further movement as the elongated member contacts the edge. Thetop edge of the slot may be positioned to react loads (e.g., toothseparation or cam-over) generated from the rotational member interactingwith the base portion. The top edge of the slot and the elongated membercan be configured such that when the lock lever is in the unlockposition, there is sufficient clearance between the top edge of the slotand the elongated member to allow for smooth telescopic adjustment. Whenthe lock lever is in the locked position, the elongated member and topedge of the slot may be in close clearance or contacting. The side wallsmay be a lip extending from the base. The connection member may insteadbe free of side walls. For example, in a connection member free of sidewalls, the base portion may be thicker or may include portions that arethicker to achieve a desired stiffness of the connection member. Theconnection member may include one or more friction plates, such as thosedescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,904,590, incorporated herein by reference(e.g., instead of or in addition to the side walls of the connectionmember).

A forward end of one or more of the side walls may be adapted to contactthe column housing during adjustment in a forward direction and/orduring an impact exceeding a threshold load. The contact between one ormore side walls and the column housing may act as a stop, limitingfurther forward travel. A telescoping damper may be secured to theforward end of the side walls or another portion of the connectionmember to provide a soft stop and/or a contact surface between theconnection member and the column housing. The telescoping damper may,for example, be formed of a polymeric material to cause a soft stop,reduce noise upon contact, provide further absorption of energy uponcontact, or a combination thereof. During an impact exceeding athreshold load, the column tube may be forced forward, causing theconnection member and/or telescoping damper to contact a portion of thecolumn housing. Additional forward movement of the connection member maybe inhibited. As the column tube may be permitted to continue totranslate forward, the connection member may break away from the columnhousing (e.g., through shearing of the fasteners joining the column tubeand the connection member). This breakaway may provide for energyabsorption within the steering column assembly. It is also contemplatedthat the breakaway of the connection member from the column tube mayoccur upon contact with an elongated member, such as a tilt bolt, aloneor in combination with the connection member contacting a portion ofcolumn housing. As the column tube translates forward, a portion of theconnection member may contact the elongated member, such as a tilt bolt.This contact may cause the column tube and connection member to separate(e.g., through shearing of the fasteners joining the column tube and theconnection member), thereby causing the breakaway.

The telescope adjustment subassembly may include one or more featuresfor locking the steering wheel and associated elements in a desiredtelescope position. The subassembly may include a rotational memberjoined to the elongated member (e.g., the tilt bolt). Upon actuation ofthe lever, the elongated member may rotate, thereby rotating therotational member. The rotational member may, for example, be a lockingcam arrangement. The rotational member may have a toothed surface orother frictional surface or complementary shaped surface that engageswith another portion of the subassembly to lock the steering columnassembly in place. The rotational member may be situated between theopposing side walls of the connection member. The rotational member mayengage with the base portion of the connection member when in a lockedposition. It is contemplated that the base portion may have a surfacethat enhances engagement with the rotational member. For example, thebase portion may have a generally complementary texture or shape or atoothing arrangement. The present teachings also contemplate an assemblythat is free of a rotational member.

The rotational member may cause or assist in the breakaway of theconnection member from the column tube during an impact exceeding athreshold load (e.g., instead of or in addition to the side walls and/ortelescope damper causing or assisting in the breakaway). Upon impact,the column tube may be forced to translate forward. With the rotationalmember in a locked position, thereby inhibiting or restricting movementof the connection member, the connection member may be caused to breakaway from the column tube (e.g., through shearing of the fasteners). Thecolumn tube may be permitted to further travel forward, while theconnection member remains in place.

The assembly herein may further employ an energy absorption structure.For instance, the assembly herein may include at least one deformableenergy absorption device (e.g., a bend plate, a wire, or some otherstructure adapted to be carried at least partially by the columnhousing), wherein the energy absorption device, when employed, absorbsenergy by plastic deformation during the secondary impact after thesteering shaft support structure (e.g., column tube and steering shaft)starts to translate along the column housing. The energy absorptionmember may plastically deform. It may deform with or without plasticelongation, with or without plastic compaction, with or without plasticbuckling, or any combination thereof. Any plastically deformable energyabsorption device may thus limit the extent of longitudinal travel ofthe column tube, steering shaft, or both. The energy absorption membermay function to secure the position of the column tube, steering shaft,steering wheel, or a combination thereof in a desired fore or aftdirection. The energy absorption plate may include two or more generallyplanar or flat sections that are generally parallel to each other. Thegenerally planar or flat sections may be joined at an arcuate or curvedportion. A portion of the energy absorption member may be fixedlyattached to the column tube (e.g., via one or more fasteners such asscrews, rivets, or pins; via one or more adhesives; via one or moremethods such as soldering or welding; or a combination thereof), fixedlyattached to the connection member, or both. A portion of the energyabsorption member may engage with an opening, notch, or guide in thecolumn tube (e.g., with or without additional fastening). The energyabsorption member may be connected to the connection member. The energyabsorption member may be integrally formed with the connection member.The energy absorption member may extend from the base portion of theconnection member, for example.

A portion of the energy absorption member may be located within thecolumn tube. For example, a first generally flat segment may be receivedwithin the column tube. The curved or arcuate portion may curve aroundan edge or notch of the column tube. The second generally flat segmentmay be located on or adjacent the outer wall of the column tube. Upon animpact exceeding a threshold load, the column tube may translateforward, pushing the energy absorption member forward, causingdeformation. The curved portion may be caused to straighten or otherwisedeform. As the column tube continues to translate forward, differentareas of the energy absorption member may be caused to curve orotherwise deform. For example, the first generally flat segment maybecome shorter, while the second generally flat segment may becomelonger and the area of the curved portion continues to change as thecolumn tube translates forward and deformation is guided around the edgeof the column tube and/or a guide structure.

The energy absorption member may be situated so that a portion (e.g., anend) of the member is received within the column tube, such as within anopening. The portion received within the column tube may be generallyperpendicular to the generally flat segments. The curved segment may bewrapped around a guide structure such as a pin. As the column tubetranslates forward during a secondary impact, the column tube may pushthe portion of the energy absorption member forward, thereby causing theenergy absorption member to be pulled around the guide structure.

A guide structure may be located on the edge or at a notch of the columntube. The guide structure may be separate from the column tube. Theguide structure may function to guide deformation of the energyabsorption member (e.g., upon an impact exceeding a threshold load). Theguide structure may function to hold the energy absorption member inposition during ordinary use. The guide structure may have one or moreslots for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorption member.The guide structure may be a pin or other member around which the energyabsorption member may wrap or coil. The guide structure may be formed ofany material suitable for withstanding the forces exerted upon it duringthe energy absorption member wrapping around it during a collision. Forexample, the guide structure may be formed of a polymeric material.

Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a steering columnassembly 10 having a forward end 12 and a rearward end 14. The steeringcolumn assembly 10 is secured to a vehicle body 16 at one or moreplaces. As shown a column housing 20 is pivotally attached to thevehicle via a pivot bracket 22, located at the forward end 12, thoughother configurations and brackets for mounting are also contemplated.The pivotal connection 24 allows for tilt adjustment of the steeringcolumn assembly. The steering column assembly 10 includes a steeringshaft 26 at the rearward end 14, which is adapted for supporting asteering wheel 28. The steering shaft 26 is supported by a column tube30, which are both supported by the column housing 20. The column tube30 is movable relative to the column housing 20, particularly in a foreand aft direction for telescoping adjustment. The steering columnassembly 10, as shown, includes a tilt bracket 32, which furtherattaches the steering column assembly to the vehicle and that allow foradjustment of the positioning of the steering wheel 28 relative to auser. The steering column assembly 10 may be adjusted in a telescopingmanner by a telescoping subassembly 50. Adjustment via the telescopingsubassembly 50 may be initiated by operating a lever 52, whichdisengages adjustment mechanisms or unlocks the mechanisms, allowing adriver to put the steering wheel 28 in a desired position.

FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of a portion of a steering columnassembly 10 including a tilt subassembly 48 supported by a tilt bracket32 and telescoping subassembly 50, which allows the column tube 30 totranslate relative to the column housing 20. FIG. 2C illustrates anunderside view of the steering column assembly 10 of FIG. 2A. Theposition of the column tube 30 is permitted to be adjusted upwardly anddownwardly relative to a driver or user of the vehicle via the tiltsubassembly 48, which includes an elongated member 46 (see FIG. 2C)supported by one or more tilt plates 42, having a slot 44 that isgenerally vertically oriented. The angle of the column tube 30 can beadjusted manually via unlocking the lever 52 and moving the steeringwheel 28 (see FIG. 1 ) to the desired height. The elongated member 46 ispermitted to move along the slot 44 during tilt adjustment and locks inplace upon locking the lever 52.

The steering column assembly 10 further includes a connection member 60secured to the column tube 30 via one or more fasteners 72 (e.g., pinsor rivets). An exemplary fastener 72 is shown in FIG. 2B. Thesefasteners may be adapted to shear upon being subjected to a force, suchas a column tube translating forward during a collision exceeding athreshold load. The connection member 60 includes a base 62, whichcontacts and/or bears against the column tube 30. Opposing side walls 64extend from the base portion, creating a channel 66. The channel 66 isadapted to receive a rotational member 54.

The connection member 60 supports an energy absorption member 80. Asshown, the energy absorption member 80 includes a first generally flatsegment 82, a second generally flat segment 84, and a curved portion 86joining the flat segments. The energy absorption member 80 optionallyincludes an engagement portion 88 that extends into an opening or notchin the column tube 30. Upon forward translation of the column tube, suchas during an impact exceeding a threshold load, the column tube 30 maycontact the engagement portion 88, pushing it in a forward direction andcausing the energy absorption member 80 to deform. Deformation may beguided by a guide structure 90, which may, for example, include a pin,an elongated member, a cross member (e.g., extending generallytransverse to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption member,column tube, or both), a cylindrical member, the like, or a combinationthereof. The energy absorption member 80 may be pulled forward and maycoil around the guide structure 90 as the column tube 30 translatesforward.

During telescoping adjustment of the assembly, the user may actuate thelever 52, which may cause the elongated member 46 to rotate. Arotational member 54 associated with or secured to the elongated member46 thereby also rotates. The rotational member 54 as shown includes atoothed surface 56 that is adapted to engage with the base 62 of theconnection member 60 secured to the column tube 30 to put the steeringcolumn assembly in a locked position. In the event of a collision,resulting in an impact exceeding a threshold load, the column tube 30may be adapted to translate forward. As the toothed surface 56 of therotational member 54 retains engagement with the connection member 60,the connection member 60 remains in place, breaking away from theforwardly translating column tube and/or causing the fasteners 72 toshear. The energy absorption member 80, as described above, may thendeform.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an exemplary steering column assembly 10 wherethe energy absorption member 80 is integrated into or connected to theconnection member 60. The energy absorption member 80 includes a firstgenerally flat segment 82 located within the column tube 30. The secondgenerally flat segment 84 is connected to or integral with the base ofthe connection member 60. A curved portion 86 joins the two flatsegments, allowing them to be in a generally parallel relation with eachother. The connection member 60 includes opposing side walls 64 having aslot 68 for receiving an elongated member 46 and to assist infacilitating telescoping adjustment. As discussed in with respect toFIGS. 2A and 2C, actuating a lever 52 (not shown in FIG. 3 ) can causethe elongated member 46 to rotate, thereby also rotating a rotationalmember 54 (see FIG. 3 ). The rotational member 54 includes a toothedsurface 56, where the toothed surface engages with the base of theconnection member 60 when the assembly is in a locked position. FIG. 4illustrates an assembly that is free of the rotational member, andthereby includes a different locking mechanism for securing the assemblyin a desired position.

The connection member 60 acts as a stop plate during telescopingadjustment and/or forward translation of the column tube 30 (e.g., uponan impact exceeding a threshold load). As the column tube 30 translatesforward, a portion of the connection member 60 contacts the columnhousing 20. During an impact exceeding a threshold load, upon contactingthe column housing 20, the fasteners 72 connecting the connection member60 to the column tube 30 may shear, thereby causing a breakaway betweenthe column tube 30 and the connection member 60 and allowing the columntube 30 to continue with forward translation, while the connectionmember 60 remains in place. The connection member 60, at its forwardend, optionally includes a telescope damper 70 (see FIG. 3 ), whichcontacts the column housing 20. The telescope damper 70 may provide fora soft stop during telescoping adjustment and/or may provide a contactsurface between the connection member and the column housing (e.g.,during normal adjustment and/or upon an impact exceeding a thresholdload).

During an impact, the energy absorption member 80 may deform, therebyacting to absorb energy and/or slow the collapse of the steering columnassembly. As the column tube 30 translates forward, it will contact thecurved portion 86, causing that portion to straighten or otherwisedeform. A new curved portion 86 may form (e.g., in an area previouslypart of the first generally flat segment 82), as the deformation of theenergy absorption member 80 is guided by a guide structure 90 (or thecolumn tube without a guide structure). The guide structure 90 may beattached to the column tube 30 (e.g., at a notch in the column tube).Assemblies free of the guide structure are also contemplated.

While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended thatthese embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather,the words used in the specification are words of description rather thanlimitation, and it is understood that various changes may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may becombined to form further embodiments of the invention.

As can be appreciated, variations in the above teachings may beemployed. For example, it may be possible to make the steering wheeladjustment subassembly from multiple subassemblies. The energyabsorption mechanism described may be substituted with some othermechanism. Though the teachings herein may reference to a secondaryimpact events as occasioning certain of the functional aspects of theteachings, the teachings are not solely limited to secondary impactevents. Rather, where reference is made to secondary impact, unlessotherwise qualified, the teachings should be regarded as contemplatingother impacts or conditions in which a threshold load (e.g., in aforward facing direction in a vehicle) is encountered that substantiallyexceeds a normal operational load and where translation of the columntube may be desirable for substantially reducing load that otherwisewould be transferred to a vehicle operator.

Any numerical values recited herein include all values from the lowervalue to the upper value in increments of one unit provided that thereis a separation of at least 2 units between any lower value and anyhigher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of acomponent or a value of a process variable such as, for example,temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90,preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intendedthat values such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc. areexpressly enumerated in this specification. For values which are lessthan one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 asappropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intendedand all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowestvalue and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to beexpressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and allnumbers between the endpoints. The use of “about” or “approximately” inconnection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of atleast the specified endpoints.

The disclosures of all articles and references, including patentapplications and publications, are incorporated by reference for allpurposes. The term “consisting essentially of” to describe a combinationshall include the elements, ingredients, components or steps identified,and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do notmaterially affect the basic and novel characteristics of thecombination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” todescribe combinations of elements, ingredients, components or stepsherein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of, oreven consisting of, the elements, ingredients, components or steps.

Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be provided by asingle integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively,a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step might bedivided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps.The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element, ingredient,component or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements,ingredients, components or steps.

Relative positional relationships of elements depicted in the drawingsare part of the teachings herein, even if not verbally described.Geometries shown in the drawings (though not intended to be limiting)are also within the scope of the teachings, even if not verballydescribed.

1) An article for a steering column assembly comprising: a. a connection member having a base portion adapted to be attached to a column tube of the steering column assembly and opposing side walls extending from the base portion; and b. an energy absorption member; wherein the energy absorption member extends from the base portion of the connection member; wherein at least a portion of the article is adapted to break away from the column tube upon an impact exceeding a threshold load. 2) The article of claim 1, wherein the energy absorption member is integrated into the connection member forming a singular piece. 3) The article of claim 1, wherein the energy absorption member has a first segment, a second segment, and a curved portion therebetween. 4) The article of claim 3, wherein the second segment extends from the base portion of the connection member. 5) The article of claim 1, wherein the side walls include a slot for receiving an elongated member. 6) The article of claim 1, comprising a telescoping damper located at a forward end of one or more of the side walls adapted to contact a column housing of the steering column assembly. 7) The article of claim 1, wherein the energy absorption member absorbs energy by way of plastic deformation. 8) The article of claim 1, wherein the connection member is adapted to break away from a portion of the steering column assembly during an impact exceeding a threshold load. 9) A telescoping adjustment subassembly comprising: a. the article of claim 1; b. an actuation member; c. an elongated member adapted to be rotated by the actuation member; and d. a rotational member attached to or positioned on the elongated member; wherein the rotational member is adapted to be received between the opposing side walls of the article, and wherein the rotational member engages with the base portion of the connection member when the subassembly is in a locked position. 10) The telescoping adjustment subassembly of claim 9, wherein the rotational member is a toothed cam. 11) A collapsing steering column assembly comprising: a. a column tube; b. a column housing; c. the article of claim 1, wherein the article is secured to the column tube; d. a manually operated steering wheel adjustment subassembly including a lever for manually actuating the steering wheel adjustment subassembly; wherein at least a portion of the article is adapted to break away from the column tube upon an impact exceeding a threshold load. 12) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the column tube is configured for telescoping insertion within the column housing. 13) (canceled) 14) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the energy absorption member is adapted to absorb energy by way of plastic deformation during a forward translation of a column tube during the impact. 15) (canceled) 16) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the portion of the article breaks away from the column tube upon the side walls and/or a telescoping damper contacting the column housing. 17) The telescoping adjustment subassembly of claim 9, wherein the portion of the article that breaks away from the column tube upon the impact as the connection member is configured to be held in position by engaging with the rotational member.
 18. The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the article breaks away from the column tube upon shearing of one or more fasteners or rivets joining the connection member and the column tube. 18) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the energy absorption member has a first segment, a second segment, and a curved portion therebetween, wherein the second segment extends from the base portion of the connection member, and wherein at least a portion of the first segment extends into the column tube. 19) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein deformation of the energy absorption member is guided by a guide structure. 20) (canceled) 21) The article of claim 6, wherein the portion of the article that breaks away is adapted to break away from the column tube when the telescoping damper contacts the column housing. 22) The collapsing steering column assembly of claim 11, wherein the side walls of the connection member include a slot that receives an elongated member, and wherein the portion of the article breaks away from the column tube upon the elongated member contacting an end of the slot of the side walls. 